3DsoundSurge Press Release: Zandiant Technologies to Introduce the First 802.11 Wireless MP3 Player for the Automotive Aftermarket

Zandiant Technologies to Introduce the First 802.11 Wireless MP3 Player for the Automotive Aftermarket

LAKE FOREST, Calif., Jan. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Leading mobile electronics developer Zandiant Technologies will introduce an exciting new automotive MP3 Player that will merge the fast-paced consumer electronics market with the automobile. Zandiant's new device, debuting in conjunction with this week's 2002 International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, enables MP3 and Wav files to be downloaded to the vehicle via IEEE 802.11 wireless technology. By introducing the wireless connection, buyers will be able to eliminate having to transfer music onto CD-ROMs or other media for playback in their vehicles. Zandiant's device will connect to aftermarket car stereo receivers, interfacing in the same manner as typical add-on CD changers. Zandiant's extensive experience in developing aftermarket and OEM mobile entertainment products provided a distinct advantage in product development. Key features of the device include:

    -- Wireless Connectivity -- 801.11 technology is utilized to move music
       files from the desktop PC to Zandiant's device.
    -- Solid State Memory -- By steering away from commonly used hard drive
       technology, Zandiant ensures reliable operation in harsh automotive
       environments.
    -- Advanced Power Management -- Zandiant's specialized power management
       scheme addresses unique demands on power efficiency in the vehicle.
    -- Interface to aftermarket car stereo receiver(s) -- Device installation
       is as easy as putting in an aftermarket CD changer; Zandiant has also
       eliminated the cost and complexities associated with developing a
       unique user interface for control of the MP3 Player.

The user can use an existing media player on the desktop PC to set up a number of MP3 files to be downloaded to the vehicle when the vehicle is turned-off and parked. The Zandiant device will wake up only during periods of file downloads. ``We see great future potential for this device as we look to expand the functionality to eventually create the possibility of a 'virtual briefcase' where rich content beyond MP3 files, such as audio books and audio/video images are conveniently sent to and from our vehicles,'' said Thomas Yamasaki, Zandiant Director of Marketing and Business Development.

Scheduled for release this year, Zandiant will be demonstrating this device to gain key market feedback to make further enhancements and improvement prior to product rollout. ``Zandiant is well positioned to create this product because it draws on the capabilities we have developed specifically for In-Vehicle Computing Systems for the aftermarket and OEM markets,'' said Albert Wong, Zandiant President and CEO. Demonstrations are being given from January 8th to 10th, at Zandiant's Hospitality Suite, located directly across from the Las Vegas Convention Center. For more details, contact (949) 230-6379 or info@zandiant.com.

About Zandiant Technologies, Inc.

Zandiant Technologies was spun-off from Clarion Co., Ltd. in February of 2001 under the leadership of Albert Wong, co-founder and former Chief Technical Officer of AST Research. Headquartered in Lake Forest, California, Zandiant specializes in the development of mobile entertainment, wireless and computing products. As an engineering consultant to the world's leading consumer electronics manufacturers and automotive suppliers, Zandiant excels in bringing digital technologies into the mobile environment. Forthcoming products developed by Zandiant include Clarion's Joyride(TM), the first automotive computer to provide DVD video with Dolby® 5.1 Channel Surround Sound and DTS® Digital Surround. Another emerging technology developed by Zandiant is in the area of Class ``D'' Audio Amplifiers. Zandiant has developed a full line of car amplifiers, ranging from 2-channel to 5.1-channel models. Zandiant offers Professional Engineering Services and licensed Product Designs to mobile electronics manufacturers. For more information, contact info@zandiant.com.

     Joyride(TM) is a trademark of Clarion Corporation of America.
     Dolby(R) is a registered trademark of Dolby Laboratories.
     DTS(R) is a registered trademark of Digital Theater Systems.

For further information, please contact Thomas Yamasaki of Zandiant, +1-949-599-6513, tyamasaki@zandiant.com.

SOURCE: Zandiant Technologies, Inc.